First identify your long-term career goals. Do you want to be doing the same work in three to five years as you are doing now? Make your goals SMART: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-bound

Next, identify short-term goals. Focus on two to four goals you would like to accomplish over the next 12 months to help you achieve your long-term goal.

Action steps. Once you have identified your short-term goals, create action steps, along with “start by” and due dates.

As for next steps, “consider what assistance you may need along the way. Are there individuals who can be good sources of information or mentors for you? Are there resources you need?”